Local initiatives in Bisri to develop farming 

Following PSP leader Walid Jumblat’s alleged confirmation that the Bisri Dam project is now behind us, a number of environmental activists formed so-called “Ahl al Ard” (people of earth) committee to restore life to Marj Bisri, Al Akhbar daily reported. They launched individual initiatives to invest in the neglected lands either by its direct proprietors or authorized parties in coordination with mayors and makhateers of the towns of Bisri, Midan, Aray, Banawati, Al Harf al Ghbatiyeh and Bhanin Banawati. On the subject, Al Akhbar spoke to Karim Kenaan, activist in “The people of Marj Bisri Committee” who explained that similar projects reflect a return to land and roots. They seek to secure food through local agricultural production after most jobs came to an abrupt halt due to the Corona pandemic and the unprecedented economic crisis in the country. These initiatives, Kenaan maintained, could develop into a cooperative for organizing, the distribution of and the sale of production. It will initially consist of farmers and makhateer of involved towns and villages, Kenaan said, pointing out that some 150 dunums of lands will be invested by new people. Most likely, they will grow wheat to meet the needs of Bisri and the environs at symbolic prices. (Al Akhbar, June 3, 2020)